Chaos off the pitch but England can taste World Cup glory on it

In the 2020s, not many teams have won a white-ball series in Sri Lanka. This afternoon, England have the chance to win their second in six days. Victory in Pallekele would give them an unassailable 2-0 lead in this three-match T20 series and enhance the feeling that they are dark horses for the upcoming World Cup.

England’s problems at the moment are all off the field, with Harry Brook admitting that he lied about his infamous night out in Wellington. 

Telegraph Sport revealed Bethell and Tongue were fined by the England management and, along with Brook, are being investigated by the Cricket Regulator after the events of that evening in Wellington in October.

Brook had initially insisted publicly that he was on his own when he was “clocked” by the bouncer. However, after England’s six-wicket victory in the opening T20 against Sri Lanka, the England white-ball captain admitted that he had not told the truth, in the hope of protecting his team-mates.

“I accept responsibility for my actions in Wellington and acknowledge that others were present that evening,” Brook said. “I regret my previous comments and my intention was to protect my team-mates from being drawn into a situation that arose as a result of my own decisions.

“I have apologised and will continue to reflect on the matter. This has been a challenging period in my career, but one from which I am learning.

“I recognise that I have more to learn regarding the off-field responsibilities that come with leadership and captaincy. I remain committed to developing in this area and to improving both personally and professionally.”

Today’s match, which could be rain affected, starts at 1.30pm – we’ll have the toss and team news shortly.